Episode 336 - Heat, Herd Size and Cow Factors: Understanding SCC in Organic Herds - UMN Extension's The Moos Room

 Brad shares results from a large national research project examining somatic cell count (SCC) and mastitis risk in U.S. organic dairy herds, using more than 2 million DHI test-day records from 430 farms across 31 states. The discussion highlights how SCC is influenced by multiple factors, including cow age, stage of lactation, milk production, breed, season, region, and herd size. Older cows, early-lactation animals, and lower-producing cows were most likely to have elevated SCC, while heat stress—especially during summer months—and larger herd size significantly increased risk. Because organic systems cannot rely on antibiotics, Brad emphasizes prevention strategies such as improved fresh-cow management, heat abatement, careful monitoring of chronic cows, and strong milking hygiene as key tools for controlling mastitis and maintaining milk quality.

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